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“There was jealousy, to be honest,” Laporte told reporters. “The decisions were made and you just have to accept them – that’s how it is in football.

“It didn’t come as a surprise to me that I wasn’t involved. I hadn’t been in the previous squad – that had been named without me – but it was still a little disappointing for me not to be involved.

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“It was a really good summer. There was plenty of relaxing with family and friends. I was really happy to get back home after a tough season.”

Laporte is now focusing on life at City after helping the club to a runaway Premier League title success last term, Pep Guardiola’s side also claiming the EFL Cup.

“I’ve had a really good six months here,” the former Athletic Bilbao defender said. “We won two titles and obviously, we won a lot of games.

“It would have been nice if we’d have played in the latter rounds of the Champions League but that’s something we can work towards this year.

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“I feel like I’ve been a starter since I’ve been here. I’ll keep working to stay in the first XI and if we’re winning games, then I hope I can do that. Everyone wants to start and I’m working towards that.

“Pep is the best manager in the world – he’s always looking to help me get better and improve my game. He’s demanding, yes, but it’s not scary. His is a style of play that I really enjoy.

“I think I can improve and so can the team, playing like this. I’m comfortable with what he asks me to do. It’s been a great move – a perfect move for me.”